Compliance audit definition

What is a Compliance Audit?

A compliance audit is an audit engagement in which the goal is to determine whether an organization is adhering to the terms of a contract or certain rules and regulations. Regulatory agencies may use compliance audits to see if a business is complying with the terms of its operating license. These audits are always performed by outside auditors, who deliver a final report on their findings following the completion of all field work.

Example of a Compliance Audit

For example, a compliance audit could be targeted at:

  • Ensuring that the terms of a bond indenture are being followed

  • Ensuring that the calculation and payment of a royalty are correct

  • Verifying that workers’ compensation pay is being properly reported

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